Saturday, August 28, 2010

Mmmm - my taste buds like it here


My first night in here in Rome I was so tired I wanted to go to bed early so instead of going out with a big group to explore I decided to go out for a short walk with Oanh Ho (who works at the Office of International Programs in Chicago and is visiting Rome). The weather was a little cooler so it was nice to walk through the quite streets of my new neighborhood. We happened upon a small local gelateria and decided we had to go in. What better way could there be to end our first day in Rome than with a gelato?! The owner was so nice as he helped us pick from the many flavors. I decided to get peach and then upon the owners instistance got a second flavor - strawberry. For a generous cup of the two flavors it was only €1.50 and it was absolutely delicious. It was so creamy and refreshing, and the atmosphere was perfect sitting in the little gelateria. The owner was closing for the evening so we moved outside and were going to walk with our gelato but he insisted that we sit and enjoy for another five minutes. It made me think that part of being here is about savoring: savoring the flavors and the culture and taking my time.
My first gelato
In the basement of the JFRC there is a little cafe where you can buy breakfast. The adorable lady at the counter already knew before I said anything that I wanted one of the amazing looking crossaints. It was delicious with just the right amount of sweetness.The next day I went back for an iced cappuccino and it was really good too! Oh, and I am glad to say that my condition of being a juice-aholic is being satisfied with juice available everyday in the cafeteria.

On Friday night I went to a dinner organized my the JFRC at a local restaurant. There was a ton of students that went and it was so much fun. I really liked the white wine and the food was amazing. We had bruschetta and toasted bread with eggplant, little sandwiches, and pasta with the best tomato sauce I've ever tasted. It was so good and sitting at dinner laughing and talking with my fellow students was wonderful! So far Rome is delicious!

4 comments:

  1. Elaina, living overseas is amazing isn't it! I am so glad you're having a great time and are able to enjoy the best part of any travel.... yummy treats! ~Shannon

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  2. It sounds like a lot of fun! Thanks for the pictures. It sounds like the people you've encountered so far have been very gracious. Looking forward to hearing about your trip starting tomorrow! Have fun!

    Love you! Mom

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  3. Sounds scrumptous! Glad you are savoring and got your gelato con panna! :)

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  4. I think savoring the flavors and enjoying every moment as you are in it is a wonderful, cultural aspect over there. Unlike here where we are always 15 minutes ahead of where we are. It is a good lesson to slow down and live in the moment. Glad the food is delish!

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